Philadelphia Senate Passes SEPTA Funding Bill
Senate approves $80.5M for SEPTA as transit agency implements 21.5% fare hike, service cuts
Senate Passes SEPTA Funding Bill
Philadelphia's SEPTA faces a $240 million annual deficit that'll force fare hikes and service cuts starting January 1. The Pennsylvania State Senate passed legislation December 11 to provide $80.5 million in funding to the transit system, but the measure passed along party lines with Democratic lawmakers voting against it. SEPTA serves 800,000 riders daily across the five-county Philadelphia region.
Federal Relief Funds Expire
The funding crisis stems from expiring federal COVID-19 relief funds that helped SEPTA offset pandemic-related revenue losses, according to the transit agency. Ridership hasn't fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels of about 1 million daily riders, meaning lower fare revenue contributes to the operating deficit. Transit agencies nationwide face similar fiscal challenges as pandemic relief ends. Pennsylvania transit systems rely on a combination of state funding, local contributions, and fare revenue to operate.
Board Approves Major Changes
SEPTA's Board approved a 21.5% fare increase and service reductions effective January 1, officials confirmed December 19. Leslie S. Richards, General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, said the authority had been transparent about financial challenges and the need for sustainable state funding. Kenneth M. Lawrence, Board Chair, told the Board the changes will have significant impact on riders and the region. Officials haven't released specific details about which routes will see service reductions or how frequencies will change.
House Action Pending
The Senate-passed bill now moves to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for consideration, though officials haven't announced a timeline for House action. Even with the $80.5 million in proposed state funding, the amount wouldn't fully close SEPTA's $240 million deficit. The approved fare increases and service cuts will take effect January 1 regardless of House action on the funding measure.
Riders Face Higher Costs
Commuters who depend on SEPTA's buses, trains, and trolleys will see fares rise more than 21% starting in January. Transit advocates have called for sustainable state funding solutions rather than fare increases that burden riders. Riders can check Moovit for real-time updates on SEPTA routes and schedules as service changes take effect.
